Page 30 of Resisting my Roommate

“Take the job, Abbey,” I plead. “I’m desperate. I really need some good help. And I’d like to think your boss isn’t too much of an asshole, despite first impressions.”

“And the room?”

“What about it?”

“Are you sure you want me moving in? That I won’t be interfering with your lifestyle or anything?” Her words are cautious, and I know what she’s asking without having to come right out and say it.

She’s worried having a roommate will interfere with my dating life.

But there is no dating life.

There never will be again.

“It’s fine. I’m rarely there as it is.”

“And the rent?”

“What do you mean?”

“How much do you want for rent?”

“Don’t worry about paying rent. Just focus on getting back on your feet.”

She looks off into the distance, worrying her bottom lip once more. Finally, after what feels like an eternity, she nods. “Okay.But only until I get back on my feet.” Shifting her wedding dress so it’s draped over one arm, she thrusts her hand out toward me.

“Deal,” I tell her.

As I take her hand in mine, I can’t help but feel a spark of electricity travel down my spine from the warmth of her skin against mine. It makes me want to hold on tighter, but I force myself to let go and create some space between us.

“What do you say we grab a pizza before heading home?”

“Sounds good to me,” she responds, playfully nudging me with her shoulder. “Roomie.”

Placing my hand on the small of her back, I guide her down the street toward the only pizza place in town, praying I didn’t just make a colossal mistake by letting her move in with me.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

JUDE

“I’m impressed,” Dylan remarks, breezing into the taproom Tuesday afternoon as I wipe down the glasses that just came out of the dishwasher.

“What are you talking about?” I ask with a furrowed brow. “I polish glasses all the time.”

“Not that. I told you to hire someone, and the next time I come in, there’s already someone new working?” She nods toward the patio where Abbey’s currently talking animatedly with a few of the guys from the local repair shop, as if they’re old friends instead of strangers.

That seems to be the effect she has on people. I noticed it the night she walked in wearing that wedding dress. And I’ve seen it again today as I’ve watched her work. People are drawn to her.

Hell,I’mdrawn to her. It’s part of the reason I’ve been hanging out here instead of in the brewhouse, even though there are dozens of things needing my attention. I tell myself I’m just being a good boss and making sure she doesn’t run into any problems on her first official day here.

In reality, it’s because I like being able to look her way every few seconds.

“Who is she?” Dylan asks, ducking underneath the bar to store her purse in its usual hiding spot.

“Just a new employee,” I respond dismissively.

“Gee, really? I didn’t figure that out,” she shoots back sarcastically. “Who is she? She’s not a local.”

“She’s not.”

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